New Jersey’s Quirky And Mysterious Palace Of Depression Is Open For Tours This Month

The Palace of Depression in Vineland is certainly one of New Jersey's strangest places. Quirky and compelling, it has a rich history and a variety of interesting features. Generally closed to the public, it will be open several weekends this month for rare fundraising tours. A visit will help support maintenance and improvement efforts, and I'd like to keep this Garden State treasure around forever.

Built during the Great Depression, the original Palace of Depression stood as a sign of resilience and innovation.

Made entirely of junk and scraps, it was constructed to make a point...with a little creativity, we can overcome even the toughest times.

It was designed by an eccentric coal miner from Alaska, George Daynor, who claimed that an angel led him to New Jersey to build something spectacular. The structure was completed on Christmas Day in 1932.

In 1969, much of the popular attraction was destroyed by fire. The original ticket booth, pictured, remains intact.

In the 1990s, efforts were made to rebuild the structure. Decades later, it's nearly complete and waiting to be visited.

The modern palace is nearly as quirky as the original and offers a unique peek into the past. You'll learn a bit of palace history...

While discovering whimsical wishing wells in walls and...

Dreary basement lairs said to be home to the Jersey Devil.

There's tons to discover, and you'll want to keep an eye on the walls - there's a lot hidden in the design. You're sure to be delighted by what The Palace has to offer but the best is yet to come. The Palace will be open for tours on November 9, 10, 16, and 17 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. (weather permitting). Admission will be $10 (cash only) with all proceeds going towards maintenance and improvements at The Palace. Tours will depart approximately every 30 minutes.